Dear Heloise: In response to Ava D., in Denver, who installed a small magnet under her kitchen cabinet to hold recipe cards, I put a tiny nail there instead. I can hang small, cheap bag clips there to hold recipe cards. Some of the bag clips don’t have magnets. It keeps recipes clean and away from a busy food-prep counter. I love your column in the Orange County Register. — Gloria, in Mission Viejo, California

Gloria, I called to see if Ava used a magnet “under” her cabinet, and she said her magnet was installed on the inside of her kitchen cabinet. She usually used a magnetic bag clip to clip on the recipe, then attached it to the magnet on her cabinet door. I believe this is a very clever hint. — Heloise

IN REMEMBRANCE

Dear Heloise: At most memorial services, there is usually a display that shares the details of the well-lived life of a loved one. When my mother passed, I photographed different sections of the collage, which contained photos from her childhood up through her 98th year. I used these photos to make thank-you notes on card stock. It gave everyone a keepsake of a woman who was well-loved. — Bob L., in Vermont

COLLEGE CHOICES

Dear Heloise: In only two years, I’ll be heading to college. My grades have put me in the top 10% of my class so far, and I’m working hard to maintain this average or perhaps do even better.

When my grandmother passed away, I found out that she left me a good amount of money for college. I also work part-time and save my money, so funding college won’t be a problem. However, I’m not entirely sure what to look for in a college. Where do I start? — Jason, in Denver

Jason, congratulations on your scholastic achievements and your ambition to earn a college degree! I’m glad you’re looking at various colleges two years ahead of graduation. By the time you graduate, you’ll probably have finalized which college is the college of your choice.

When you are scouting for a college to attend, there are several factors to consider:

— First, what are your academic strengths? Look for a college that specializes in these subjects.

— Consider the college size. Some people like a big school, while others prefer a small campus with fewer students.

— Work out a monthly budget that includes books, tuition, lab and other miscellaneous fees, transportation, phone bills, and whatever else you might need or use. Try to stick to your budget as much as possible.

— Check out the programs offered by the colleges. Ask yourself if the college can prepare you for the field you want to work in for many years.

— Think about the location. Will you live on campus or live at home and commute? If you commute to classes, you’ll need a car, gas, insurance and possibly maintenance.

— And my last hint is to learn to say “no.” There will be times when you’ll want to skip studying for an exam and go to a party instead. But the party won’t help you as much as studying will.

My best wishes to you in whatever field or endeavor you chose! — Heloise

DRILLING A PILOT HOLE

Dear Heloise: When hanging up pictures, it’s best to drill a pilot hole into the plaster for the nail before hammering it in. If one does not drill a hole, the plaster surface will splinter, creating patchwork if the picture gets moved or taken down in the future. — Ray M., via email

SEND A GREAT HINT TO:

Heloise@Heloise.com